The former Manchester United man has represented Ireland at Under 21 level. He was born in Dundalk, but also qualifies for Northern Ireland through his grandparents.

After an impressive start to his career at Tynecastle, where he is on loan from English Premier League side Burnley, O’Neill has moved to ensure the 21-year-old remains within the Republic’s international clutches.

“It would be ridiculous of me to say that wouldn’t be a part of that,” said the former Celtic manager.

“I spoke to young Dunne, he was delighted with the call and I think he genuinely wants to play for us and that’s important.

“I’ve known from the past that even players involved in a 36/37 man squad always get a lift from that. And that was certainly the case when I spoke to young Dunne.